Two aneurysms.
Two surgeries.
Back to the classroom.
After years of putting her own health last, Josefina discovered two brain aneurysms—and found expert care, renewed confidence and a way back to the life she loves.
Life kept moving.
Her own health had to wait.
When Josefina Rios was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease, or PKD, in 2017, her physicians recommended that she be screened for brain aneurysms. PKD can increase the risk of aneurysm formation, and her family history made that risk even more important.
But between raising her family, welcoming her second child and beginning a new career as a Spanish teacher, Josefina kept putting the recommended imaging off.
Years later, a routine scan revealed the threat she had feared: two brain aneurysms that required expert evaluation and treatment.
From an overdue scan to two successful treatments
Screening recommended
After being diagnosed with PKD, Josefina was advised to undergo screening for brain aneurysms.
Two aneurysms discovered
A CT scan revealed aneurysms on both sides of her brain, including one measuring nearly 10 millimeters.
First aneurysm clipped
Dr. Kyle Chapple treated the larger aneurysm with open microsurgical clipping.
Second aneurysm treated
Josefina underwent a second craniotomy and clipping procedure after a safer plan was selected.
Back to teaching
By October, Josefina had returned to her students and the work she loved.
A routine scan revealed a serious threat
On Mother’s Day in 2023, Josefina finally completed the recommended CT scan. Moments later, she was told that she needed immediate evaluation.
Additional testing revealed a nearly 10-millimeter aneurysm on the right side of her brain and a second aneurysm on the left. She was transferred to Overlook Medical Center, where she came under the care of Kyle T. Chapple, MD, a neurosurgeon specializing in both open and endovascular treatment of cerebrovascular conditions.
Insurance-approval delays postponed treatment. During the wait, Josefina experienced headaches, facial numbness and increasing anxiety about the possibility of an aneurysm rupturing.
Some people carry a higher risk of developing an aneurysm
Screening decisions should be based on a qualified medical professional’s evaluation of personal and family risk. Factors may include:
- Family history of brain aneurysms
- Polycystic kidney disease and certain genetic conditions
- High blood pressure
- Smoking history
The first surgery brought relief after months of uncertainty
In July 2023, Dr. Chapple performed a right pterional craniotomy and microsurgical clipping to treat the larger aneurysm.
The procedure was successful, and Josefina’s recovery exceeded her expectations. Follow-up imaging later confirmed that the treated aneurysm remained secure.
The safest plan changed when the anatomy demanded it
An initial attempt at minimally invasive treatment was stopped when Dr. Chapple determined that the aneurysm’s anatomy made the planned approach unsafe.
Evaluate the anatomy
Imaging showed that the aneurysm’s shape and position made the initial treatment strategy less predictable.
Stop when risk changes
The team chose not to force a minimally invasive procedure when the anatomy indicated a different approach would be safer.
Choose another option
Dr. Chapple recommended open clipping to provide a more controlled treatment for the remaining aneurysm.
Back to the classroom and the people who matter most
By October, Josefina had returned to teaching and resumed the activities she loved.
When later symptoms raised concerns about another aneurysm, follow-up testing confirmed that her brain had healed and both aneurysms had been successfully treated.
Today, she continues to focus on her health while embracing every opportunity to spend time with her family, students and community.
Life after two brain-aneurysm surgeries
- Both aneurysms successfully treated
- Follow-up imaging confirmed secure repairs
- Returned to teaching three months after her second surgery
- Back with her family, students and community
Kyle T. Chapple, MD
Dr. Chapple treats complex cerebrovascular conditions using both open and endovascular techniques. That range of expertise allows the treatment approach to change when a patient’s anatomy or risk profile requires another option.
Brain aneurysms do not all require the same treatment.
Location, size, shape, vessel anatomy and a patient’s individual circumstances all influence whether monitoring, endovascular treatment or open surgery is most appropriate.
Facing her next health challenge with the same determination
At the time of this story, Josefina’s PKD had progressed to stage-four kidney damage, and she was on the transplant list. She continues to approach each day with faith and an appreciation for time with her family, students and community.
Father Christopher Keenan is serving as a point of contact for people interested in learning how they may be able to support Josefina. He can be reached at fdnychaplainchris@yahoo.com .
Understand your diagnosis and every appropriate option
If you have been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm, have a family history of aneurysms or want another expert to review your imaging, our neurovascular specialists can help you understand what comes next.
